Poker is a card game where players bet on their hand by placing chips into the pot. It is a game of chance, but it can also be one of skill, and there are many different strategies to learn. It’s important to follow basic poker etiquette to avoid getting into arguments with other players or dealers.

If the person to your right raises a bet, you can choose to “call” or match their amount. To call, say “call” or “I call” and place your chips into the pot. To raise your bet, you must say “raise” or “I raise” and then place more chips into the pot than before.

It’s important to understand the rules of your game before you start playing, as these will differ from one site to another. The most common rules include:

Always have a reason for your action, such as calling for value or raising to bluff. This will help you make more consistent decisions throughout your session.

Practice your mental game by analyzing hands and studying player tendencies. This will help you improve your understanding of the game and increase your confidence. It’s also a good idea to start out conservatively and play at low stakes so that you can observe the game more and develop quick instincts. Also, remember that bankroll management is crucial. You should only play with money that you’re comfortable losing and only play against players who are at your skill level or lower.